📚 CHAPTERS 📚 00:00 - In 2019 I Bought a Van 00:20 - Ram Promaster Specifications 00:33 - Something Super Cool 01:10 - 5 Things I Love & 5 Things I Hate About My Vanbuild 01:41 - Custom Bookshelves 02:13 - Spice Racks 02:27 - Vanbuild Electrical Setup 03:07 - Ruvati Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink 03:32 - Custom Built Sink Cabinet 04:07 - 5 Things I Hate About My Vanbuild 04:34 - Vanbuild Regret: Bed Platform 05:24 - Vanbuild Regret: Water Storage 06.24 - VanLife Regret: Refrigerator 07:12 - Vanbuild Regret: Cabinet Lock Latches 08:06 - Vanbuild Regret: No Window Screens 09:44 - Minor Vanbuild Mistakes 10:16 - Should I Sell My Van? 10:38 - First Time Vanbuild Advice 11:47 - Outro / Thanks for Watching / Bonus Footage
I just discovered your videos. I am so proud of you. You are so brave to explore nature and share it with us. I know it’s scary sometimes. Life throws you curve ball, Gods strength is our joy. We’re all over comers. Thank for sharing the truth of up and down of life. God wants to show us that his true peace and joy comes through his strength during tough times.
They also make bug screens that fit over your cab windows like socks. I got them for my prius road trip and they are so functional - ventilation, added privacy, and they help keep your vehicle cooler when you’re parked. I highly recommend them!
Hey Anna, About the fridge issue, I think Childproof fridge locks will be perfect for this problem. ♥ they are cheap on amazon! Love your build! Sending good Vibes from Ohio! ♥
Also about the mosquitos, there are Mosquito nets specifically for Vas on Amazon and on top of that, there are elastic car mosquito nets that you want to put over the door and just crack down your windows.
Little tip where you can find free water, Anna. Any cemetery in America has a pipe for people to get water for watering their plants & flowers they leave. Just bring some washed out gallon milk jugs or whatever your using, and fill up! Check it out. I use to get water this way when camping when I was younger. I'm in my 60s now. Just don't draw attention to yourself. Do so with less people around.
I an definitely not rolling my eyes at your fridge! I would totally pick my fridge to match the colour of my van. Its awesome! Your van is very cool. Thank you for showing it to us 🥰🚙🇨🇦
I LOVE the bookshelves. I purged my books pre-vanlife, when I actually "read" I can't focus on a Kindle or iPad or a digital device. I can do audio books tho. And that's what I do now. There's actually kid safety locks made for fridges at home depot. I have one on one of my drawers that likes to slide open when I drive. The kid safety locks are pretty effective for a lot of cabinet issues. 2 roof vents!! I have 2 roof vents, front and back. Air out and in at once and a couple of 12 volt and/or USB fans. There's also netting you can put over your front windows while they are rolled down. You can set yourself some small rebuild projects as opposed to gutting the whole thing or buying a new van. Plenty of people also install van windows on the body after the build is done. Yeah, ideally you do it DURING the build, but you can do it whenever.
That fox was so beautiful! It’s fun to see these videos and be reminded that everyone has something in their van that they feel isn’t perfect and it’s okay to just get out there and live anyway.
Many of our endeavors are challenging. Just be proud you are living your dream. I traveled the west for decades and now living our dream living Off Grid. I have heard so many people say it is their dream to do what I do but not many takes the steps to try. I have experienced those who come off grid and get very frustrated and even cry, but push on. These people are pioneers and paving the way for others. You are doing the same. As an electrical engineer, I am impressed you set up the solar yourself. If you ever have Mechanical issues, stop by our community. I am a mechanic. We plan to build a shop to repair nomads vehicles here in the future. We are 70 miles south of Sanders AZ on I-40. Same exit as the Petrified Forest National Park. (PriusLife Nomads Off Grid Community)
Just buy some screen material from Walmart and buy a bunch of small magnets. Tons of videos on making screens for your van. NoSeum screen is best for bugs, but will cut down on ventilation. Good luck.
Make yourself some mosquito netting for back doors and side slide. They come pre- made, but you can create it fairly easily. Magnet edges to hold in place.
Good idea. She can also buy a bug zapper. I use one on my back porch during the summer. It works. It doesn't require a lot of power, so it's another option to deal with the mosquitos and flying insects.
Don’t apologize for rambling. Sometimes we think best when we ramble because it’s unfiltered. I learned a lot from this video. And thanks for all the timestamps - I wish everyone did that.
Summer is rough in the van without AC. I went with a small generator I sit on my hitch rack and a portable AC unit from home Depot for 800 total for both. You have to stick a vent out out of your van window or cut a hole in the side but it's better than sweating to death and having trouble sleeping on hot nights
Sailboats are a good resource on space / storage. Look at them for ideas. (self sufficient for weeks) No reason you could not remake your bed to a Bench an table design. Include your fresh and grey water storage in that area.
As far as the heat goes, get at least 2 small 12vt fans. You can find them online, or at RV supply places. They can at least keep interior at ambient temp. They can also help keep flying pests off you. And instead of A/C, just go up in elevation. If you stay around 7,000 ft, you should be fine.
You can always add a screen at your side door like I did. It’s just full length top to bottom and I taped it on the top of the door and then I just roll it up and keep it up there with small bungee cords.
Your vanbuild says a lot about you. You're a remarkable young lady. Thanks for sharing these important tips. These'll serve as guidelines to anyone interested. Vanlife must be exciting and I'll be following your journey. Take care always.
I live full time out of my 2008 Toyota Prius. I really like your large and luxurious van, lol. I can totally relate to your bugs and heat stresses. On Amazon, I found these cool and cheap car door screens. They're kind of like pantyhose material and just slide over the door frame. I absolutely love them. Just search for car door screen.
For the sink, maybe cut a crescent shape into the corner of the cutting board (like with Leisure Travel Van sink covers) for the faucet to drip through directly into the sink itself. Plug up the sink so you don't lose that water.🤙😉
A child safety strap or marine/fridge lock sound like the best bet. Both look to use stick backing. Another option might be 2 strong magnets held I cloth to not scratch the fridge.
Have you tried mesh window screens for the front doors. They just slip over the door. You can adjust the air flow by how much you roll down the window. They are on Amazon and are inexpensive. I use them and they work great. 👍 PS, Nice Videos!!!!!
The beauty of it is that you can always take a break and with some finds you can remodeled. Your van is so cute, I love it. Note you know what works or what does not and can remodeled down the line.
Great information Anna! It’s always helpful to see what does and doesn’t work for somebody. As you’ve probably figured out by now, it’s important to introduce fresh air into any cavity that you’re venting air out of. Otherwise you’re just creating a vacuum and that isn’t very efficient. You could actually have two fans in the van. One introducing air in and one exhausting it out. Thank you so much for your great content!
checkout the vents for horse trailers. these can be easily installed (with a hole cut) in your rear door for air to get pulled thru by your fan. a stealth, affordable solution imo.
Anna-Don’t be so hard on yourself;) It’s your first van & build & thats how you learn what works & what doesn’t. I think when a Solo-Van Lifer builds they 🤔 🤍in terms of ‘self’. As for a lock 🔒 on that darling fridge. Go to a Walmart & check out the baby section for childproof locks. The duct tape may peel the paint off your fridge. Make some little changes & keep that sweet little red van❣️Yes! A mesh-bug screen, that’s exactly what I was going to suggest. One couple bought a pop up screen & put a table & chairs to have friends over, but the brand they chose was expensive, but built to last & easy pop-up & I believe 6ft. by 6ft. I would definitely pop out @ redo a couple windows with screens for cross ventilation. Best to you.
06:57 You could put 2 "screw eyes" (one on each side of the wood frame around the front of the fridge) and attach some sort of bungy across and hold the door shut.
Anna, I have searched and finally found videos made by someone like you. I love adventure and also photography but what I love about your videos is that you are daring, searching and living! It is what I've always wanted and know I can do. I also am searching for nature to answer my happiness questions. I am of Asian decent too born in SF, CA but my parents left the City and I grew up with people who didn't look like me. Love them but something was missing inside me. I never felt comfortable inside my own skin. Nature, Muir Woods, Rivers, cold mornings from the trees, and birds are my perfect morning. Perhaps a friend who shares your beliefs would be a great next phase for your travels.
THANK YOU, Anna. We learned a lot from your previous vanbuild videos from a year ago, and we made some of our decisions based on your vanbuild (i.e. solar panels, kitchen sink, efficient water storage space, bed platform, etc) and most importantly we also got the Promaster 2500 although ours is the 159WB. You did an excellent job doing your vanbuild yourself! I think more and more people are looking to get a vanbuild like yours because it is much cheaper than buying the already built camper vans such as the Winnebago Travato. Plus the vanbuilds can add personal touch to it just like your bookshelves and fridge. If you decide to build a second one, we will definitely tune in to those videos. Cheers 🍻
Anna, you can get outdoor sand rug, folding table, folding chairs, and red light. So that you will have an outdoor living and dinning area without mosquito. If your budget allows, may add an awning.
go to amazon...search on "over door window shades"...these are elastic bottomed bags made of nylon screening and they slide over an open door...close door and then roll down window...they started about $11.00/+ ...I am so getting these for my van...every mosquito within a mile finds me...also...the dripping faucet...many covers come with a hole in the center, which you place your faucet right over. This is because most of them drip a bit. Find someone with a dril, cut a hole 1-1 1/2" wide and make sure your faucet can reach it...sand inner edge and reglue and clamp your split...
Ideas. Think: Mosquito netting (back and front minimally), lots of cabinet/refrigerator lock options on Amazon (compartmental trays all in your frig with rubber no-slide strips on bottoms), bungee cords/loose nets/with string or elastic for stuff falling out of upper cabinets. You have everything you need to master this... you're smart, perceptive and very nice! : )
I have a custom van on order. That's because I'm fortunate enough to have the money. Delivery will be April 2022. You impress me as a very intelligent, articulate and gifted young woman! I admire your confidence and willingness to put yourself out there.
Hi Anna, I'm finally doing it and building out my Van! I was almost swayed towards the platform fixed bed from YT Vanlifers, but settled on a dinette style set up. I may lose out on the grage storage but I'm not hauling moutain bikes/boards etc. Will see how creative I get with tetris when the time arrives! Amazon has Curtain Style Screens (usually used for patio sliders) They work great for both the back and slider doors. They have a centre strip magnet that will allow Nala to come in and out and it self closes. They have a few at all price points on Amazon. Mine is on bach order, so in the meantime I picked up Ikea netting curtains, hope they do the job for my first roadie!
You did an amazing job for your first van build....I love that you brought your books with you even though they take up space that others might think you could do without I could hear in your voice how much you like them and that is the only thing that is important....it's your journey! Enjoy your adventure and stay safe
Take a little time off and make those 5 adjustments to the van, you'll probably be able to start enjoying that much sooner. Be sure to figure out a air conditioning solution for the "entire" summer versus something that helps out during those hot days. Seems like the temporary solutions, instead of the long term A/C builds, don't work as well as intended and often are very disappointing at best. Keep up, keeping up and doing what you love doing! Don't forget to ask for help along the way from your loved ones and community, they are more than happy to help. Happy trails to you, I look forward to seeing more and hope they last as long as Bob Wells' and others. I'm sure you're an inspiration to a lot of women and men both.
I lived out of a Nissan pulsar hatchback for four months touring Australia and apart from a very cramped bed and clothes the rest of the car was full of books. Now starting van life build journey and bookshelves are definitely a priority. Love the moment with the fox too.
To keep the fridge closed during travel, install one eye-hook on the left and right wood frame. Then, get some bungee cord tie-strap that can bridge the span. You can clip the bungee hooks into the eye-hooks. No more tape!
Hi Anna, the smell of paper and printers ink is what made books so special. That feeling and sound when you break in a new book can never be simulated by digital copies. The hours of reading and making the words yours are so enriching in life and bring so much wisdom. Enjoy them.
I use a bungee cord hold the fridge in place and closed in my camper. Just put eye hooks either behind or on each side of the fridge to hook the bungee to. Use one that isn't supper stretchy. I also use childproof locks to keep cabinets and drawers shut, but not the weird magnet kind.
I'm in awe of the fact that you built this van out on your own. I think it is a real accomplishment and now you are in the process of continuing to learn from your experience living in it. It is all part of the process of getting better at this - as you said at the end of your video. I'm impressed, Anna.
You can probably use bungie cords for you frig. And use those screens that close with magnets that way you can open your door but have some sort of bug protection
That spice rack is truly wonderful; I like how you used Velcro to secure them. Keeps them from rattling or falling if you're on a rough road. Excellent!
On Amazon you can find bug netting that goes over your passenger door windows. Super simple solution for air! :) love the video, your build, and your personality!
Great thoughts Anna. No regrets, just different views. I drink a lot of ice tea in the summer (not always iced, lol) and I reuse the one gallon jugs for water and put them wherever I can...easy to fit, easy to fill at grocery store water outlets, not as heavy to carry, recycled! Keep them in dark place as they are opaque and sunlight makes for a pretty green color if not used often, if ya know what I mean, wink.Hope you got that bug screen. Spray bottle and sit in front of a mini usb fan with rechargeable battery, got a couple on Amazon and they are great! Cheers!
Thanks for the after-use video. Build videos are fine but I like to see what people do. I love your idea of keeping produce in the sink strainer! Keeps it aerated, secure, & out of the way. Aside from your AC/screen situation, which will evolve as you need it to, it looks like you made good choices. Honestly, your *adorable* fridge looks like it holds more, more accessibly, than most Dometics do. For the latch, swap out your tape with velcro, or add some eyehook loops(the bolt end) on either side & stretch a soft bungee across the front. I don’t understand why people put in small sinks if they build in a van kitchen. Not having cleanup or hair washing space makes everything harder. Yours is great. One passive vent option - cover your passenger front door window with screen on the inside. Silicone clear caulk around the edge. Leave clearance to make sure you can roll the window down. If you need to rip it out, you can and it’s cheap to replace. A roll of screen is cheap. Add a couple $5 USB rechargeable fans to move the air while you work on AC options. Folding beds are a ton of work, twice every day. You have to move and stow your bedding with less space to stow it. Instead swivel your passenger seat, and add a Lagun mount desktop or a flip up/down or lap table. Or get camp chairs & a pop up tent/net room. Good luck! You’ll figure out which upgrades you do & don’t need. You’re ahead of the game already, don’t get discouraged - all of your stated problems have *multiple* good solutions.
Let's see if I can remember several of your comments here. I like it cool when I sleep so maybe you can get a roof mounted RV air conditioner. But if all you want is a screen I know for semi trucks they do make screens that fit into your window and they're fairly secure for sleeping at night, and by that I mean people breaking in. Your water storage get some aluminum or stainless steel tanks that could fit in front of or behind your wheel wells. That way you keep the weight low to the ground and it's inside your van so it doesn't freeze. You're bed make it so that it would rise up to your ceiling so you could still keep your bench and table below it. Your refrigerator get a chest style combination refrigerator freezer I keep mine set at 30ﾟ and it keeps thing's cold I could turn it down and freeze everything but I don't. Or you get 2, one for refrigerating and for freezer.
Hi, perhaps you could tow a small trailer and keep extra water in it and anything else you have top up on a regular basis. Water, gas, outdoor table setup so you can invite friends over. Just a suggestion. Net curtains and superglued magnets for a bug screen.
1st van build, you did a nice job ! And the more you do the better you will get. you can always redo the way your van build looks. the frig door is a simple fix with some sort of small latch .
Re the mosquitos! I saw someone make a lightweight frame with mosquito net and attach magnets to it so it would stick to the inner part of the windows. Hope this helps! Loved your video so much!!
hi Anna, I made a screen for my van door. I bought a cheap screen for doors fromTarget and ordered strong magnets from Amazon and sewed it along the top and edges of the screen.it works really well, it magnetizes along the outline of the van door. I think I spend $ 20.00 on the screen and $15 on the magnets. I hope this helps.
Hi Anna For your fridge go to a thrift store and buy a mans leather belt and cut it and screw it to either side of the opening and when your going to drive just buckle it up across the front of the fridge.
Put 2 hooks and a bungee cord for the fridge. You could also put a nice piece of you on a slot on each side where gravity would hold the horizontal board in front of the fridge. You pick shape and size and color😀 I use both methods on my boat on different applications.
I suggest house window locks on the bottom of that cabinet. They come in white and are inexpensive. Velco straps would work on the fridge. Happy travels!
As a new subscriber to your channel I watched all your videos and as narvier of 20 years I'm proud of you for the adventure that you're on. Enjoy but always be safe and don't pay attention to any negative people on the Internet
Greetings from England, recommended by socks with sandals.....great van build! My take on the things you dislike... water....underneath tank? Cupboards...Velcro works well for me....fridge.....2 bungee corda across the front would work? Bed... can you not install a fold down table for a cup of tea (sorry coffee!) with friends & have a small bench or fold down dining chairs? Anyways I love your free spirit....stay safe lovely lady....Dave x
You are delightful. To solve your water problem so you have a much as 60 gallons place a roof rack then Amazon has a240 Lt PVC water container you can place in it. Fill the bag when it's on the roof. Use a hose to fill your containers when needed
I saw some wonderful screens that go on your cabs door windows. . Even for now get some screening material and drape it over your door covering your windows with magnets at the bottom. Good luck . I am a new follower and love your honesty!!
Also, if you haven't had a solution to the fridge: place a coffee eye hook on either side of the opening to the fridge area & run a couple of bungees across the front.
I made magnetic screen coverings to go on the outside of the driver and passenger door windows. Your fan can pull air in through the open windows. Travel well. Thomas
HI Anna, great video Whatever you do: be yourself and be really confident toward your situation and yourself! Your body language tells that from your previous life experience you are holding some real emotion/affection/expression back.... Pivot your situation and improve it!
I haven’t finished watching the video but for your fridge, use a self adhesive Velcro strip. In the same place you are using the duct tape. I had to do this to my home fridge when my oldest son was a toddler because he’d help himself to junk food from the fridge and make a huge mess. Also, no hate from me for the books! I hope to have a van soon and mine will need bookshelves and book storage too. I love reading and I love holding real books. For the bugs for your doors, for less than 30.00, buy magnetic closing sliding door screens from Amazon. I use them on my house and they are great! I can find you a link if you’d like. I think Walmart might sell them too. Then mount a battery fan that will blow air in and move the air around.
Refrigerator - put eyebolts on both sides and use 550 cord with d-rings on each end. Bugs- on amazon you can get bug screens that like connect to your van with magnets and it has a center walk through slit that is also magnetic. Cant remember what they're called but you should be able to google something like "magnet screens" and that should work for your back and side door. Driver and passenger door- go to home depot or lowes and buy just some window screen. It comes in a roll and you can get a whatever size you need. Get that and some earth magnets at the same store. At night you can crack both front windows for ventilation and keep the bugs out at the same time. Hope this helps, I hate those pesky little blood sucking mosquitoes
Great Video, thanks for sharing. Have you considered a couple of usb rechargble fans to help with the hot summers? As for your fridge, I would recommend an eye hook on both sides facing the other direction underneath the bed and then hooking a bungee cord to across to prevent the door from coming open. Good Travels
Did you solve your heat problem? Two instant easy, affordable fixes: Buy the garage/door screen curtains with magnetic clips, they work bad on houses, but should be perfect on an RV. Next you can buy mesh/screen at Lowes or a garden center, dollar tree has magnets, needles & thread go to town stitching and placing kiddo. You've got this!
For heat - easy solution would be to get a screen. You can get them from Amazon for like $40. We have one on our Promaster and it works great. The more permanent and effective solution would be to put another fan directly above the bed. We have a fan at the rear and front, rear one blows in, front one exhausts. The air circulation with both fans even just on the lowest setting is amazing. You can buy any cheap fan and determine which way it will spin by wiring the polarity one way or the other (ie just wire it backwards and it'll spin backwards).
Hello Anna, I enjoyed this video and I was wondering if you ever solved the mosquito problem. I have an inexpensive idea I use on my hatchback of my Kia Soul wagon. I went to Walmart and I found some sheer curtains which are between $4-6 a panel. I am using 3 panels. I sewed my panels together to make a large screened in porch which I attach with some magnets to my rear hatch. Your van is metal so you can buy a large panel and attach it to the inside of your van with magnets. Sheer panels come in various colors and sheer panels look just like screen, it’s a very strong material, it will allow air to pass through and keep the bugs out. Look into it. Take care and hope my idea helps.
A very generous information video. Thank you I wish I had the confidence and smarts to build a Van. Well done! It seems possible to do some upgrades that will enhance your existing Van and be happy. Happy travels.
Screw in a little piece of wood in the top right corner of the framing around the fridge so that you can rotate it to block the fridge door from opening while driving
I liked build and go for it-attitude. The fox and encouraging words. When you brought up the water I was wondering if you were able to install tanks under the van.
There are many essential oils that are toxic to both cats and dogs and other pets… I believe peppermint oil is one so please research that before hand🙏🏻❤️
From an essential oil website: How safe are essential oils for our pets? “Many essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang ylang are straight up toxic to pets. These are toxic whether they are applied to the skin or used in diffusers”. Please research before putting your pets in danger. 🙏🏻❤️
@@KN-bs9wb my dog is fine and 9 years old not in any danger I haven't even applied it to them, I use neem, chamomile and lavender. I have over 30 years experience so I do know what I am doing. Thanks for the concern it's much appreciated but definitely not needed.
I do not use essential oils or have pets. I have just heard this through friends that do so thought it was worth mentioning. Glad to hear you have not had any issues with them❤️
Keep your van, copy the wood frame screen door that "Humble Road" did on his very first van. I did and its perfect people are blown away when you open the sliding door. Convert your fixed bed into a "dinette bed" with storage under the benches and sleep in the same direction as you currently do. My goodness, you have the prettiest face, sorry could not resist.
📚 CHAPTERS 📚
00:00 - In 2019 I Bought a Van
00:20 - Ram Promaster Specifications
00:33 - Something Super Cool
01:10 - 5 Things I Love & 5 Things I Hate About My Vanbuild
01:41 - Custom Bookshelves
02:13 - Spice Racks
02:27 - Vanbuild Electrical Setup
03:07 - Ruvati Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
03:32 - Custom Built Sink Cabinet
04:07 - 5 Things I Hate About My Vanbuild
04:34 - Vanbuild Regret: Bed Platform
05:24 - Vanbuild Regret: Water Storage
06.24 - VanLife Regret: Refrigerator
07:12 - Vanbuild Regret: Cabinet Lock Latches
08:06 - Vanbuild Regret: No Window Screens
09:44 - Minor Vanbuild Mistakes
10:16 - Should I Sell My Van?
10:38 - First Time Vanbuild Advice
11:47 - Outro / Thanks for Watching / Bonus Footage
I just discovered your videos. I am so proud of you. You are so brave to explore nature and share it with us. I know it’s scary sometimes. Life throws you curve ball, Gods strength is our joy. We’re all over comers. Thank for sharing the truth of up and down of life. God wants to show us that his true peace and joy comes through his strength during tough times.
They also make bug screens that fit over your cab windows like socks. I got them for my prius road trip and they are so functional - ventilation, added privacy, and they help keep your vehicle cooler when you’re parked. I highly recommend them!
12:39. When your watch dog is at peace, you know you can be too. Enjoy
Hey Anna, About the fridge issue, I think Childproof fridge locks will be perfect for this problem. ♥ they are cheap on amazon! Love your build! Sending good Vibes from Ohio! ♥
Also about the mosquitos, there are Mosquito nets specifically for Vas on Amazon and on top of that, there are elastic car mosquito nets that you want to put over the door and just crack down your windows.
Little tip where you can find free water, Anna. Any cemetery in America has a pipe for people to get water for watering their plants & flowers they leave. Just bring some washed out gallon milk jugs or whatever your using, and fill up! Check it out. I use to get water this way when camping when I was younger. I'm in my 60s now. Just don't draw attention to yourself. Do so with less people around.
I knew you were a book worm, but I never realized just how many books you actually had... I love it I love it I love it
I an definitely not rolling my eyes at your fridge! I would totally pick my fridge to match the colour of my van. Its awesome! Your van is very cool. Thank you for showing it to us 🥰🚙🇨🇦
Love your Van and it’s personality. Finally someone with some color!!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Go mini-fridge!!! 😜👍🏻👍🏻
I LOVE the bookshelves. I purged my books pre-vanlife, when I actually "read" I can't focus on a Kindle or iPad or a digital device. I can do audio books tho. And that's what I do now.
There's actually kid safety locks made for fridges at home depot. I have one on one of my drawers that likes to slide open when I drive. The kid safety locks are pretty effective for a lot of cabinet issues.
2 roof vents!! I have 2 roof vents, front and back. Air out and in at once and a couple of 12 volt and/or USB fans. There's also netting you can put over your front windows while they are rolled down.
You can set yourself some small rebuild projects as opposed to gutting the whole thing or buying a new van. Plenty of people also install van windows on the body after the build is done. Yeah, ideally you do it DURING the build, but you can do it whenever.
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Lol,love the rambling Anna,please don't stop. Amazed at how positive a person you are and how we love your lifestyle. Be safe.
That fox was so beautiful! It’s fun to see these videos and be reminded that everyone has something in their van that they feel isn’t perfect and it’s okay to just get out there and live anyway.
yessss!
Many of our endeavors are challenging. Just be proud you are living your dream. I traveled the west for decades and now living our dream living Off Grid. I have heard so many people say it is their dream to do what I do but not many takes the steps to try. I have experienced those who come off grid and get very frustrated and even cry, but push on. These people are pioneers and paving the way for others. You are doing the same. As an electrical engineer, I am impressed you set up the solar yourself. If you ever have Mechanical issues, stop by our community. I am a mechanic. We plan to build a shop to repair nomads vehicles here in the future. We are 70 miles south of Sanders AZ on I-40. Same exit as the Petrified Forest National Park. (PriusLife Nomads Off Grid Community)
Just buy some screen material from Walmart and buy a bunch of small magnets. Tons of videos on making screens for your van. NoSeum screen is best for bugs, but will cut down on ventilation. Good luck.
Make yourself some mosquito netting for back doors and side slide. They come pre- made, but you can create it fairly easily. Magnet edges to hold in place.
Good idea. She can also buy a bug zapper. I use one on my back porch during the summer. It works. It doesn't require a lot of power, so it's another option to deal with the mosquitos and flying insects.
Don’t apologize for rambling. Sometimes we think best when we ramble because it’s unfiltered. I learned a lot from this video. And thanks for all the timestamps - I wish everyone did that.
I recycled an old ripped tent to make screen doors for my mini van. I just cut to fit and attatched it with sticky velcro strips.....
Wish I had this idea when I had a equinox...
You did BRILLIANTLY. Don’t be so hard on yourself.
ikr, she kicks my butt
For the fridge door buy baby refrigerator straps. It’s a strap with a clasp. I use it on my mini fridge here at home.
Summer is rough in the van without AC. I went with a small generator I sit on my hitch rack and a portable AC unit from home Depot for 800 total for both. You have to stick a vent out out of your van window or cut a hole in the side but it's better than sweating to death and having trouble sleeping on hot nights
They ask me 1.000 dls in Florida to make a hole for my fan😡
Sailboats are a good resource on space / storage. Look at them for ideas. (self sufficient for weeks) No reason you could not remake your bed to a Bench an table design. Include your fresh and grey water storage in that area.
As far as the heat goes, get at least 2 small 12vt fans. You can find them online, or at RV supply places. They can at least keep interior at ambient temp. They can also help keep flying pests off you. And instead of A/C, just go up in elevation. If you stay around 7,000 ft, you should be fine.
You can always add a screen at your side door like I did. It’s just full length top to bottom and I taped it on the top of the door and then I just roll it up and keep it up there with small bungee cords.
Your vanbuild says a lot about you. You're a remarkable young lady. Thanks for sharing these important tips. These'll serve as guidelines to anyone interested. Vanlife must be exciting and I'll be following your journey. Take care always.
I live full time out of my 2008 Toyota Prius. I really like your large and luxurious van, lol. I can totally relate to your bugs and heat stresses. On Amazon, I found these cool and cheap car door screens. They're kind of like pantyhose material and just slide over the door frame. I absolutely love them. Just search for car door screen.
For the sink, maybe cut a crescent shape into the corner of the cutting board (like with Leisure Travel Van sink covers) for the faucet to drip through directly into the sink itself. Plug up the sink so you don't lose that water.🤙😉
A child safety strap or marine/fridge lock sound like the best bet. Both look to use stick backing. Another option might be 2 strong magnets held I cloth to not scratch the fridge.
@Bad Witch Diaries Agreed. Quick clip-strap child lock will keep the fridge secure and looks better an tape.
Marine locks are always impressive.
Have you tried mesh window screens for the front doors. They just slip over the door. You can adjust the air flow by how much you roll down the window. They are on Amazon and are inexpensive. I use them and they work great. 👍
PS, Nice Videos!!!!!
The beauty of it is that you can always take a break and with some finds you can remodeled. Your van is so cute, I love it. Note you know what works or what does not and can remodeled down the line.
Great information Anna! It’s always helpful to see what does and doesn’t work for somebody. As you’ve probably figured out by now, it’s important to introduce fresh air into any cavity that you’re venting air out of. Otherwise you’re just creating a vacuum and that isn’t very efficient. You could actually have two fans in the van. One introducing air in and one exhausting it out. Thank you so much for your great content!
One works great as long as you have a vent of some sort on the opposite end of the vent fan location!
6:53 I didn't even know they had no residue duct tape!!!!
I LOVEEEE my non-residue duct tape haha
checkout the vents for horse trailers. these can be easily installed (with a hole cut) in your rear door for air to get pulled thru by your fan. a stealth, affordable solution imo.
Anna-Don’t be so hard on yourself;) It’s your first van & build & thats how you learn what works & what doesn’t. I think when a Solo-Van Lifer builds they 🤔 🤍in terms of ‘self’. As for a lock 🔒 on that darling fridge. Go to a Walmart & check out the baby section for childproof locks. The duct tape may peel the paint off your fridge. Make some little changes & keep that sweet little red van❣️Yes! A mesh-bug screen, that’s exactly what I was going to suggest. One couple bought a pop up screen & put a table & chairs to have friends over, but the brand they chose was expensive, but built to last & easy pop-up & I believe 6ft. by 6ft. I would definitely pop out @ redo a couple windows with screens for cross ventilation. Best to you.
06:57 You could put 2 "screw eyes" (one on each side of the wood frame around the front of the fridge) and attach some sort of bungy across and hold the door shut.
Anna, I have searched and finally found videos made by someone like you. I love adventure and also photography but what I love about your videos is that you are daring, searching and living! It is what I've always wanted and know I can do. I also am searching for nature to answer my happiness questions. I am of Asian decent too born in SF, CA but my parents left the City and I grew up with people who didn't look like me. Love them but something was missing inside me. I never felt comfortable inside my own skin. Nature, Muir Woods, Rivers, cold mornings from the trees, and birds are my perfect morning. Perhaps a friend who shares your beliefs would be a great next phase for your travels.
THANK YOU, Anna. We learned a lot from your previous vanbuild videos from a year ago, and we made some of our decisions based on your vanbuild (i.e. solar panels, kitchen sink, efficient water storage space, bed platform, etc) and most importantly we also got the Promaster 2500 although ours is the 159WB. You did an excellent job doing your vanbuild yourself! I think more and more people are looking to get a vanbuild like yours because it is much cheaper than buying the already built camper vans such as the Winnebago Travato. Plus the vanbuilds can add personal touch to it just like your bookshelves and fridge. If you decide to build a second one, we will definitely tune in to those videos. Cheers 🍻
I agree with the dinette bed idea; unless you need the storage. Your honesty is refreshing.
Anna, you can get outdoor sand rug, folding table, folding chairs, and red light. So that you will have an outdoor living and dinning area without mosquito. If your budget allows, may add an awning.
go to amazon...search on "over door window shades"...these are elastic bottomed bags made of nylon screening and they slide over an open door...close door and then roll down window...they started about $11.00/+ ...I am so getting these for my van...every mosquito within a mile finds me...also...the dripping faucet...many covers come with a hole in the center, which you place your faucet right over. This is because most of them drip a bit. Find someone with a dril, cut a hole 1-1 1/2" wide and make sure your faucet can reach it...sand inner edge and reglue and clamp your split...
I agree, I like the feel of books.
I recycle my books at Salvation Army, Goodwill, used book & antique stores
Ideas. Think: Mosquito netting (back and front minimally), lots of cabinet/refrigerator lock options on Amazon (compartmental trays all in your frig with rubber no-slide strips on bottoms), bungee cords/loose nets/with string or elastic for stuff falling out of upper cabinets. You have everything you need to master this... you're smart, perceptive and very nice! : )
I have a custom van on order. That's because I'm fortunate enough to have the money. Delivery will be April 2022. You impress me as a very intelligent, articulate and gifted young woman! I admire your confidence and willingness to put yourself out there.
And I am with you on the book thing!
I gotta feel and smell my books!
Very definitely an excellent choice of books! I have about half of them... now I gotta go check out what you had that I don't... yet ;)
Anna for your doors situation - Velcro is a van lifer best friend.
Yep, I have velcro on my drawers to keep them shut.
@@robertw1962 does it work even on rough roads?
@@CR-wk2re yes, surprisingly
@@robertw1962 wow, good to know!
Hi Anna, I'm finally doing it and building out my Van! I was almost swayed towards the platform fixed bed from YT Vanlifers, but settled on a dinette style set up. I may lose out on the grage storage but I'm not hauling moutain bikes/boards etc. Will see how creative I get with tetris when the time arrives!
Amazon has Curtain Style Screens (usually used for patio sliders) They work great for both the back and slider doors. They have a centre strip magnet that will allow Nala to come in and out and it self closes. They have a few at all price points on Amazon. Mine is on bach order, so in the meantime I picked up Ikea netting curtains, hope they do the job for my first roadie!
Congratulations!!! How exciting!!! 🥰 I think you’ll love your dinette style set up! Wishing all the best on your build 💛
You'll get tired of converting your couch to a bed every day I think.
Live outside. Sleep inside!
You did an amazing job for your first van build....I love that you brought your books with you even though they take up space that others might think you could do without I could hear in your voice how much you like them and that is the only thing that is important....it's your journey! Enjoy your adventure and stay safe
Take a little time off and make those 5 adjustments to the van, you'll probably be able to start enjoying that much sooner. Be sure to figure out a air conditioning solution for the "entire" summer versus something that helps out during those hot days. Seems like the temporary solutions, instead of the long term A/C builds, don't work as well as intended and often are very disappointing at best. Keep up, keeping up and doing what you love doing! Don't forget to ask for help along the way from your loved ones and community, they are more than happy to help. Happy trails to you, I look forward to seeing more and hope they last as long as Bob Wells' and others. I'm sure you're an inspiration to a lot of women and men both.
I love the look of your sink area! it’s so aesthetically pleasing. and wow you did that!? 😍👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽✌🏽
I lived out of a Nissan pulsar hatchback for four months touring Australia and apart from a very cramped bed and clothes the rest of the car was full of books. Now starting van life build journey and bookshelves are definitely a priority. Love the moment with the fox too.
For your fridge. Easy solution get a spring load curtain rod place in front of fridge on inside of cabinet so face frame will also hold rod in
To keep the fridge closed during travel, install one eye-hook on the left and right wood frame. Then, get some bungee cord tie-strap that can bridge the span. You can clip the bungee hooks into the eye-hooks. No more tape!
Hi Anna, the smell of paper and printers ink is what made books so special. That feeling and sound when you break in a new book can never be simulated by digital copies. The hours of reading and making the words yours are so enriching in life and bring so much wisdom. Enjoy them.
I use a bungee cord hold the fridge in place and closed in my camper. Just put eye hooks either behind or on each side of the fridge to hook the bungee to. Use one that isn't supper stretchy. I also use childproof locks to keep cabinets and drawers shut, but not the weird magnet kind.
I'm in awe of the fact that you built this van out on your own. I think it is a real accomplishment and now you are in the process of continuing to learn from your experience living in it. It is all part of the process of getting better at this - as you said at the end of your video. I'm impressed, Anna.
thank you so much 🥰💛
You can probably use bungie cords for you frig. And use those screens that close with magnets that way you can open your door but have some sort of bug protection
That spice rack is truly wonderful; I like how you used Velcro to secure them. Keeps them from rattling or falling if you're on a rough road. Excellent!
The five things you hate are easy fixes....fridge door....child safety latch....you got this.....
On Amazon you can find bug netting that goes over your passenger door windows. Super simple solution for air! :) love the video, your build, and your personality!
Great thoughts Anna. No regrets, just different views. I drink a lot of ice tea in the summer (not always iced, lol) and I reuse the one gallon jugs for water and put them wherever I can...easy to fit, easy to fill at grocery store water outlets, not as heavy to carry, recycled! Keep them in dark place as they are opaque and sunlight makes for a pretty green color if not used often, if ya know what I mean, wink.Hope you got that bug screen. Spray bottle and sit in front of a mini usb fan with rechargeable battery, got a couple on Amazon and they are great! Cheers!
Thanks for the after-use video. Build videos are fine but I like to see what people do. I love your idea of keeping produce in the sink strainer! Keeps it aerated, secure, & out of the way.
Aside from your AC/screen situation, which will evolve as you need it to, it looks like you made good choices. Honestly, your *adorable* fridge looks like it holds more, more accessibly, than most Dometics do. For the latch, swap out your tape with velcro, or add some eyehook loops(the bolt end) on either side & stretch a soft bungee across the front.
I don’t understand why people put in small sinks if they build in a van kitchen. Not having cleanup or hair washing space makes everything harder. Yours is great.
One passive vent option - cover your passenger front door window with screen on the inside. Silicone clear caulk around the edge. Leave clearance to make sure you can roll the window down. If you need to rip it out, you can and it’s cheap to replace. A roll of screen is cheap. Add a couple $5 USB rechargeable fans to move the air while you work on AC options.
Folding beds are a ton of work, twice every day. You have to move and stow your bedding with less space to stow it. Instead swivel your passenger seat, and add a Lagun mount desktop or a flip up/down or lap table. Or get camp chairs & a pop up tent/net room.
Good luck! You’ll figure out which upgrades you do & don’t need. You’re ahead of the game already, don’t get discouraged - all of your stated problems have *multiple* good solutions.
Let's see if I can remember several of your comments here. I like it cool when I sleep so maybe you can get a roof mounted RV air conditioner. But if all you want is a screen I know for semi trucks they do make screens that fit into your window and they're fairly secure for sleeping at night, and by that I mean people breaking in.
Your water storage get some aluminum or stainless steel tanks that could fit in front of or behind your wheel wells. That way you keep the weight low to the ground and it's inside your van so it doesn't freeze.
You're bed make it so that it would rise up to your ceiling so you could still keep your bench and table below it.
Your refrigerator get a chest style combination refrigerator freezer I keep mine set at 30ﾟ and it keeps thing's cold I could turn it down and freeze everything but I don't. Or you get 2, one for refrigerating and for freezer.
Need a magnetic bug screen that are relatively cheap, I think you doing a good job.
Hi, perhaps you could tow a small trailer and keep extra water in it and anything else you have top up on a regular basis. Water, gas, outdoor table setup so you can invite friends over. Just a suggestion. Net curtains and superglued magnets for a bug screen.
You can place a rod across the refrigerator.
Drill holes in sides cabinet to secure rod which can retract and be removed to gain access.
1st van build, you did a nice job ! And the more you do the better you will get. you can always redo the way your van build looks. the frig door is a simple fix with some sort of small latch .
Re the mosquitos! I saw someone make a lightweight frame with mosquito net and attach magnets to it so it would stick to the inner part of the windows. Hope this helps! Loved your video so much!!
I use Safety 1st multi-purpose appliance latch for my camper fridge.
You have that big 'garage' under your bed. You can probably fit a pretty good size potable water tank under there and still have plenty of storage.
hi Anna, I made a screen for my van door. I bought a cheap screen for doors fromTarget and ordered strong magnets from Amazon and sewed it along the top and edges of the screen.it works really well, it magnetizes along the outline of the van door. I think I spend $ 20.00 on the screen and $15 on the magnets. I hope this helps.
Hi Anna
For your fridge go to a thrift store and buy a mans leather belt and cut it and screw it to either side of the opening and when your going to drive just buckle it up across the front of the fridge.
Put 2 hooks and a bungee cord for the fridge. You could also put a nice piece of you on a slot on each side where gravity would hold the horizontal board in front of the fridge. You pick shape and size and color😀 I use both methods on my boat on different applications.
Check fabric stores for netting. You can Velcro it along the door frame. Or use magnets.
You can get those sock screens for the side windows up front
I suggest house window locks on the bottom of that cabinet. They come in white and are inexpensive. Velco straps would work on the fridge. Happy travels!
Ladybug screen the front roll down Windows so air can come in with your fan on
You'll be able to fall asleep with your window cracked a little bit
As a new subscriber to your channel I watched all your videos and as narvier of 20 years I'm proud of you for the adventure that you're on. Enjoy but always be safe and don't pay attention to any negative people on the Internet
thank you and thanks for the reminder 🙂 sometimes easier said than done but I absolutely agree
Greetings from England, recommended by socks with sandals.....great van build! My take on the things you dislike... water....underneath tank? Cupboards...Velcro works well for me....fridge.....2 bungee corda across the front would work? Bed... can you not install a fold down table for a cup of tea (sorry coffee!) with friends & have a small bench or fold down dining chairs? Anyways I love your free spirit....stay safe lovely lady....Dave x
You are delightful. To solve your water problem so you have a much as 60 gallons place a roof rack then Amazon has a240 Lt PVC water container you can place in it. Fill the bag when it's on the roof. Use a hose to fill your containers when needed
beautiful words, also love 60s and 70s folk, soft rock and Motown!
I saw some wonderful screens that go on your cabs door windows. . Even for now get some screening material and drape it over your door covering your windows with magnets at the bottom. Good luck . I am a new follower and love your honesty!!
Mosquitoes don't like catnip. Having catnip laying out in pan-like storage (flat, easy to move, easy to dump) works for us - at home, on the road.
I’ve never heard of this! I’ll have to look into it. Thanks for the tip 🙂
Also, if you haven't had a solution to the fridge: place a coffee eye hook on either side of the opening to the fridge area & run a couple of bungees across the front.
Awesome job on the solar especially!!
I made magnetic screen coverings to go on the outside of the driver and passenger door windows. Your fan can pull air in through the open windows.
Travel well.
Thomas
First time van builder here 🙋 and I have to say I love your van and your first time van builder advice!! Safe travels!
thank you! 😊
wishing you fun adventures and safe travels too! 🚐 💨 🗺
You can put hooks and a bungee cable from both sides of the cabinet across the fridge.
Me too with the books! I'm definitely going to have a book shelf.
HI Anna, great video
Whatever you do: be yourself and be really confident toward your situation and yourself! Your body language tells that from your previous life experience you are holding some real emotion/affection/expression back....
Pivot your situation and improve it!
You can Drill a hole in your cutting board just big enough to let the water drip through that would double as a way to pull it out then seal it up
I haven’t finished watching the video but for your fridge, use a self adhesive Velcro strip. In the same place you are using the duct tape. I had to do this to my home fridge when my oldest son was a toddler because he’d help himself to junk food from the fridge and make a huge mess.
Also, no hate from me for the books! I hope to have a van soon and mine will need bookshelves and book storage too. I love reading and I love holding real books.
For the bugs for your doors, for less than 30.00, buy magnetic closing sliding door screens from Amazon. I use them on my house and they are great! I can find you a link if you’d like. I think Walmart might sell them too. Then mount a battery fan that will blow air in and move the air around.
Refrigerator - put eyebolts on both sides and use 550 cord with d-rings on each end. Bugs- on amazon you can get bug screens that like connect to your van with magnets and it has a center walk through slit that is also magnetic. Cant remember what they're called but you should be able to google something like "magnet screens" and that should work for your back and side door. Driver and passenger door- go to home depot or lowes and buy just some window screen. It comes in a roll and you can get a whatever size you need. Get that and some earth magnets at the same store. At night you can crack both front windows for ventilation and keep the bugs out at the same time. Hope this helps, I hate those pesky little blood sucking mosquitoes
Love your video. Even I got frustrated when your cabinet wouldn't open! Mosquitoes love me, so yes screens would be a must.
Great Video, thanks for sharing. Have you considered a couple of usb rechargble fans to help with the hot summers? As for your fridge, I would recommend an eye hook on both sides facing the other direction underneath the bed and then hooking a bungee cord to across to prevent the door from coming open.
Good Travels
Did you solve your heat problem? Two instant easy, affordable fixes: Buy the garage/door screen curtains with magnetic clips, they work bad on houses, but should be perfect on an RV. Next you can buy mesh/screen at Lowes or a garden center, dollar tree has magnets, needles & thread go to town stitching and placing kiddo. You've got this!
For heat - easy solution would be to get a screen. You can get them from Amazon for like $40. We have one on our Promaster and it works great.
The more permanent and effective solution would be to put another fan directly above the bed. We have a fan at the rear and front, rear one blows in, front one exhausts. The air circulation with both fans even just on the lowest setting is amazing. You can buy any cheap fan and determine which way it will spin by wiring the polarity one way or the other (ie just wire it backwards and it'll spin backwards).
Try Baby Houdini straps to hold the fridge closed.
That was going to be my suggestion as well.
Hello Anna, I enjoyed this video and I was wondering if you ever solved the mosquito problem. I have an inexpensive idea I use on my hatchback of my Kia Soul wagon. I went to Walmart and I found some sheer curtains which are between $4-6 a panel. I am using 3 panels. I sewed my panels together to make a large screened in porch which I attach with some magnets to my rear hatch. Your van is metal so you can buy a large panel and attach it to the inside of your van with magnets. Sheer panels come in various colors and sheer panels look just like screen, it’s a very strong material, it will allow air to pass through and keep the bugs out. Look into it. Take care and hope my idea helps.
A very generous information video.
Thank you
I wish I had the confidence and smarts to build a Van.
Well done!
It seems possible to do some upgrades that will enhance your existing Van and be happy.
Happy travels.
Screw in a little piece of wood in the top right corner of the framing around the fridge so that you can rotate it to block the fridge door from opening while driving
I liked build and go for it-attitude. The fox and encouraging words. When you brought up the water I was wondering if you were able to install tanks under the van.
Make a spray with peppermint and neem oils it will repel bugs and cool you down. Essential oils are the answer to most things 🥰
There are many essential oils that are toxic to both cats and dogs and other pets… I believe peppermint oil is one so please research that before hand🙏🏻❤️
@@KN-bs9wb thanks, I know that, it's only if ingested. We can burn in small amounts some oils and definitely some to avoid. Good advice though 🥰💜
From an essential oil website:
How safe are essential oils for our pets?
“Many essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang ylang are straight up toxic to pets. These are toxic whether they are applied to the skin or used in diffusers”.
Please research before putting your pets in danger. 🙏🏻❤️
@@KN-bs9wb my dog is fine and 9 years old not in any danger I haven't even applied it to them, I use neem, chamomile and lavender. I have over 30 years experience so I do know what I am doing. Thanks for the concern it's much appreciated but definitely not needed.
I do not use essential oils or have pets. I have just heard this through friends that do so thought it was worth mentioning. Glad to hear you have not had any issues with them❤️
Get USB fans to move air
I can stand cold in my van but heat and night sweating drives me crazy.
I also just ordered one of those $89
Small ac units
I believe those use water and or ice to cool. They do cool but create serious moisture problems especially in a metal van that can rust!
Keep your van, copy the wood frame screen door that "Humble Road" did on his very first van. I did and its perfect people are blown away when you open the sliding door. Convert your fixed bed into a "dinette bed" with storage under the benches and sleep in the same direction as you currently do. My goodness, you have the prettiest face, sorry could not resist.
for extra water, maybe you could under mount a 20 gallon water tank under the van.